Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Published: December 24, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara

This incredible Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Pasta: Spaghetti or fettuccine works well here; choose your favorite!
Heavy Cream: For that luscious sauce that makes you want to dive right in!

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is ideal for maximum cheesiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping up your garlic and cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and soak up all that wonderful flavor.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In your slow cooker, combine the chicken pieces with minced garlic, soy sauce, and heavy cream. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is coated nicely.

Step 3: Add Pasta

About halfway through cooking (around three hours if on high), add in your uncooked pasta. This allows it to absorb all those rich flavors while cooking perfectly al dente.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Once everything is cooked through (about six hours on low), stir in your freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined beautifully.

Step 5: Time for Serving

Transfer to plates and drizzle with some extra cream if you’re feeling indulgent. Garnish with parsley or more cheese—because why not?

Enjoy this dish with crusty bread or a light salad on the side for an effortless yet impressive meal. Your taste buds will thank you!

You Must Know About Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara

This showstopping Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. Then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. Finally, combine everything in the slow cooker and let the magic happen.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara with ingredient swaps like turkey bacon instead of pancetta or adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or microwave until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara

This professional-quality Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sharing my first attempt at making Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara still brings a smile; my friends declared me a culinary genius—after I assured them it was mostly just a slow cooker doing all the work!

FAQs

What is Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara?

Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara is a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. It combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta, all cooked together in a slow cooker for maximum flavor and convenience. This dish typically features ingredients like bacon, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is simple and satisfying.

How long does it take to make Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara?

The preparation time for Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara is relatively quick. You can expect to spend about 15 minutes preparing the ingredients. Once everything is in the slow cooker, it generally requires 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. This hands-off cooking method allows you to focus on other tasks while your meal simmers away, making it an ideal option for busy schedules.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara is its versatility. You can substitute different proteins like turkey or shrimp if you prefer. Vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms can also be added for extra nutrition and flavor. Additionally, feel free to adjust the level of creaminess by varying the amount of cheese or cream used in the recipe. Experimenting with different ingredients keeps your dish fresh and exciting every time you prepare it.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara?

When serving Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara, consider pairing it with a light side salad or steamed vegetables for balance. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are also excellent accompaniments, allowing you to soak up any leftover creamy sauce. If you want to elevate your meal further, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds color and freshness. These sides complement the rich flavors of the carbonara beautifully.

Conclusion

In summary, Slow Cooker Chicken Carbonara offers a delightful blend of flavors and convenience that makes it a must-try recipe. With minimal preparation time and simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that pleases everyone at the table. Customize it according to your taste preferences and enjoy its creamy goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also brings joy during family dinners or gatherings with friends.

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📖 Recipe Card